Residential Trips

‍

Four children walking and smiling outdoors wearing Orwell Park School navy sweatshirts in front of a leafy wall.

Residential Trips

At Orwell Park, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our rich and varied programme of trips offers pupils the opportunity to explore, discover and grow, both close to home and across the world.

From international opportunities such as cultural exchanges at Mayo College in India, canoeing adventures along the Ardèche River in France, and immersive language trips to Normandy, to UK-based sports tours, our pupils benefit from a truly global experience.

Closer to home, pupils enjoy a wide range of enriching activities, including residential adventures at PGL, local excursions to historic sites such as West Stow and Walsingham, and visits to Minsmere Nature Reserve. Outdoor learning is a key part of life at Orwell Park, with camping expeditions, participation in the OPS Challenge programme, and exploration of Suffolk’s ever-changing coastline.

These day and residential experiences are carefully woven into the Orwell Park curriculum. They are designed to build confidence, resilience and independence, while supporting pupils’ physical and mental wellbeing. Just as importantly, they foster strong friendships and create lasting memories that our pupils carry with them long after they leave.

A woman and a smiling young girl wrapped in a white blanket reading a book together in front of a bookshelf.
Three smiling children wearing Orwell Park school uniforms standing outside near a handrail.

Year 5 PGL – Bawdsey

Year 5 enjoy a three‑day residential at Bawdsey Manor, an fantastic opportunity to stay away from home with friends. The trip includes a variety of adventurous activities designed to develop confidence, independence and team work.

Smiling boy in blue school uniform playing a yellow and red board game at a table.

Year 6 Activity Week

Year 6 take part in an OPS Challenge‑based residential week, combining on‑site bushcraft, orienteering and outdoor skills with three days of off‑site adventure. Pupils camp, sail, kayak and work towards a recognised water‑sports qualification.

Smiling boy in blue school uniform playing a yellow and red board game at a table.

Year 7 Mayo College Exchange – India (Optional)

Year 7 pupils can take part in a ten‑day cultural exchange with Mayo College, “the Eton of the East.” The trip offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore Indian culture, visit landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, enjoy a tiger safari, and experience vibrant local markets and cuisine.

Smiling boy in blue school uniform playing a yellow and red board game at a table.

Year 7 French Trip – Normandy

Year 7 pupils spend a week in Normandy, immersing themselves in French language and culture. Activities are designed to build confidence, enhance language skills, and deepen understanding of life outside of the UK.

Smiling boy in blue school uniform playing a yellow and red board game at a table.

Year 8 Sports Tour – Ardèche, France

All Year 8 pupils are invited to join our annual UK based Sports Tour each autumn, a fantastic way to bond as a year group. Based at Acorn Adventure’s campsite near Ruoms, pupils enjoy a week of outdoor activities including kayaking, climbing, abseiling and caving, culminating in the unforgettable two‑day descent of the Ardèche River.